West Brom v Newcastle United Premier League Preview and Prediction

Premier League Preview for West Brom v Newcastle United along with Predictions for every result in the EPL. Follow up each match with results and video highlights posted later in the week.

The Week 20 New Year’s Day Premier League Predictions have been posted, so go read up on my EPL picks for the weekend. You can use this preview for your own information or for any betting that you may do which can be done from any of the Premier League Betting Links here on the blog. Be sure to also check out the Premier League TV Schedule and 2013-14 Premier League Table.

West Bromwich Albion

The Baggies have finally strung together some results having drawn three consecutive matches. However, this still hasn’t been enough to put them entirely clear of a possible relegation battle as they sit in 15th place with 18 points, only two above the drop zone.

They did show some signs of improvement in their 3-3 away draw to West Ham. While allowing three goals is far from ideal, they were able to come back after going down twice. They also had 22 shots from 54% possession. These are both up from their season averages of 12.8 shots per game with 1.2 goals per game and 47% average possession.

Newcastle United

In facing Arsenal on Saturday it was clear that Alan Pardew was setting out with a similar tactic that he used in getting results against Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United; namely, attempting to absorb pressure for large periods, then breaking quickly on counter attacks to attempt to surprise the opposition. While they did get some decent chances this way, there weren’t many and they didn’t convert the few they got. With 11 shots they put there on target. I would say that their possession of 47% is also rather skewed considering that Arsenal was dominating most of the possession up until they scored their goal in the 65th minute.

Prediction

I’m predicting a Newcastle United win for Wednesday. In their past six head to head matches Newcastle has won three, drawn two, and West Brom has won one. While West Brom has picked up some recent results, Newcastle has been playing well and picking up wins while West Brom has only managed draws.